WHAT IS A KIDNEY STONE ?
Kidney stone is a hard mass that is caused when calcium oxalate or other chemicals in the urine form crystals that stick together. These crystals may grow into stones, ranging in size from a grain of sand to a golf ball. Kidney stones are common between the age of 20 to 40 years. And they are more common in men, who account for four out of every five causes.
DIAGNOSIS
X-rays can usually identify the presence of stones. Specialised X-ray techniques( sometime using dye injection) or sound waves may be used to identify more accurately the size an location of the stones and to test kidney functions as well.
Blood and urine test may help a doctor to zero in on the factors causing the stone an plan the best treatment.
CAUSES
Normally, urine contains substances such as potassium, magnesium, vitamin C and Vitamin B6 that prevent crystals from forming, but some people may have a deficiency. The main factor that can contribute to stone formation include, too little fluid intake, chronic urinary tract blockage, certain genetic an metabolic ailments and a diet high in uric and purine content.
Signs of kidney stones
While some people do no show any kidney stone symptoms at all, there are certain common signs to look out for. They may last from a few minutes to several hours. Severe pain in the kidneys or lower abdomen, which may move to the groin, nausea and vomiting, fever chills an weakness, cloudy or foul-smelling urine, blood in the urine or blocked flow of urine are some common signs.
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